Sample cover letter for Full Time position at UNICEF

I am writing to apply for the position of a social policy officer with UNICEF. I believe that my competitiveness as a candidate can best be understood in terms of four factors. Firstly, I have acquired significant work experience in development finance, research, communications and stakeholder management. Most recently as a data analyst, I tracked and analysed spending patterns of donor countries and evaluated the year on year trends of development assistance. A major achievement for me on this role was providing data analytic contribution to Development Initiatives investment to end poverty report; a document used by policy makers in the development sector to base spending decisions and ensure resources are allocated based on need

Secondly, I hold a master’s degree in international development and as such possess extensive training in using quantitative and qualitative techniques to collect, analyse, and present a wide range of data to fill information gaps and enhance evidence based decisions. My work experience as a policy analyst with the international land coalition in Senegal and department of humanitarian affairs in Hong Kong has equally helped refine my narrative and formal writing skills. Additionally, I have experience conducting field research in rural Kenya where I utilised qualitative methods in evaluating the impact of ICT on educational delivery and livelihoods. My degree coupled with my work history has enhanced my capacity to interpret and present data in meaningful and multi-faceted ways.

Thirdly, one of my most prized assets is my ability to effectively establish partnerships between stakeholders and manage external relationships. My past role as a stakeholder manager afforded me the opportunity to deal with a wide range of interests whilst communicating effectively to ensure the overarching aim of the organization was met. I pride myself in being able to work independently and have the ability to use initiative when confronted with seemingly insurmountable problems.

Finally, I share and admire UNICEF’s human right based approach to international development. By analysing inequality and redressing discriminatory practices UNICEF has put itself in the best possible place to help vulnerable children escape poverty traps and take ownership of their future. I am excited at the opportunity to work with an organization that shares this very core belief regarding development work and hope I can utilize my extensive skills to further the cause of UNICEF.